Clean your dryer vent line
Lint buildup and restricted venting can increase dryer fire risk and slow drying. Check the lint filter and accessible venting, following your model manual.
What you'll learn
- How lint-filter cleaning differs from cleaning the exhaust duct
- How to spot crushed or restricted accessible venting
- Why the exterior vent cover must open during operation
- When gas connections, inaccessible ducts, or difficult access require professional help
Step by step
- Let the dryer cool and disconnect electrical power before cleaning. For a gas dryer, arrange qualified help if access would strain or require disconnecting the gas line.
- Clean the lint filter and accessible lint around the dryer according to the manual.
- Inspect the visible exhaust duct for crushing, damage, or lint restriction. Do not reach into inaccessible wall or roof ducts.
- If your manual permits owner cleaning, use its specified method for safely accessible duct sections. Arrange professional cleaning when the full run cannot be reached safely.
- Before reuse, make sure the duct is securely connected and unrestricted. Check from a safe location that the outside cover opens during operation.
Stop using a dryer that smells burnt, overheats, or still has restricted exhaust. Have the cause checked before another load. For smoke or fire, leave and call 911 from safety.
Source instructions
Use the instructions for your exact model before starting maintenance.
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Keep learning.
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Check your refrigerator manual before cleaning condenser coils. Some models have accessible coils; others need no routine cleaning or require a technician.
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Clean your dishwasher filter
A dirty removable filter can leave food residue on dishes. Check your model manual first: some dishwashers use a filter that needs no routine cleaning.